Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Every year, the Neighborhood Cruisers select local families that are in need of financial help, due to the rising costs of hospital bills, medicine, and medical treatment.

This year, the Neighborhood Cruisers selected three children to be the beneficiaries of this year's Cruisin for Kids Car Show.

Alexa Castellano – 5 years old - Valley Cottage, N.Y.
At Birth the Family was told she had characteristics of Down syndrome. She had holes in her heart and her intestines were twisted. She needed constant treatment, surgery and is at high risk for pneumonia and infections. Alexa undergoes occupational therapy and therapy for motor skills and speech. Alexa’s Mother (Anna) passed away in November 2009 from Breast Cancer. Her Father Frank is raising her on his own.

Nicole Green – 7 years old - New City, N.Y.
Nicole was born with autism affecting her esophagus and her basic eating skills. During feedings the liquid would travel to her lungs. She had surgery to insert a tube but was unable to eat. At age one she started therapy to help teach her how to eat. Today Nicole can eat solid foods as long as it is cut to bite sized pieces. Nicole would benefit from extra therapies and loves therapeutic horseback riding and swimming. The family would love to be able to purchase a PECS (picture communication system) to aid with her communication skills.

Nicholas Seeley – 7 years old - New Rochelle, NY
Nicholas has suffered severe disabilities from birth. He cannot sit up, walk or talk and is feed by a feeding tube. Nicky is unable to move on his own and the family is in need of a handicap assessable van. Nicky’s sister Allie Seeley is a North Rockland High School student.